Japan

The earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on 11 March devastated the northeastern coast of Honshu Island. Approximately 15,000 people were killed and 6,000 were injured. At the end of the year, some 5,000 people were still missing.

Japanese emergency teams were largely able to respond to the needs of survivors, and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) offered specialist assistance. The day after the quake and tsunami, staff made their way to affected areas by helicopter and began providing survivors with medical care and distributing relief items.

In the weeks that followed, MSF distributed 4,030 blankets, 6,500 litres of water, a generator for a temporary shelter in Baba-Nakayama village and 10,000 hygiene kits containing soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste and towels. MSF also provided kits containing batteries, candles and matches to some 4,000 people and donated 110,000 euros’ worth of medicines, medical equipment and supplies.

Ensuring access to medical care

MSF worked principally in the northern coastal towns of Minami Sanriku and Taro, where the main healthcare facilities were totally destroyed. From March to June, medical teams conducted some 4,840 consultations. Patients’ main complaints were hypertension and upper respiratory tract infections.

MSF delivered two 30-seater buses to authorities in Minami Sanriku to help transport patients from evacuation centres and temporary housing to medical facilities.

At the request of people staying in a centre in Baba-Nakayama, MSF designed and helped construct a semi-permanent shelter close by. The team supervised 25 evacuees, who built a private space for approximately 30 women and children, which reduced overcrowding in the existing centre.

In Taro, MSF designed and built a temporary clinic, for use until a more permanent structure is completed. This was handed over to local health authorities in December.

MSF also delivered a vehicle specifically designed to transport disabled patients living in and around Taro.